Get Personal: The Holiday Gifting Handbook

Ring in the festive season with our curated present picks for every personality type on your list.

By Lindsay Samson

Dec 7, 2021

Whether you’ve had a year to remember or are more than happy to bid farewell to 2021, one thing that remains the same is that a little gifting goes a long way in lifting the spirits. And in an effort to make snagging the perfect gift a little less stressful, we’ve put together this handy guide to shopping for presents for every persona. So whether you’re treating your most discerning family member to a stunning piece of jewelry or are looking to spoil your sustainability-obsessed bestie, read on and let us help make your gift-selecting task a triumph.

THE WATER BABY

We all know someone who simply lives for the summertime: there’s nothing they love more than the feeling of unrelenting sunshine, sand between their toes, and the smell of salt water. At the first hint of returning sunshine, you’ll see them breaking out those shades and shorts, and while it may not be as deliciously warm in every part of the globe right now, what beats a brightly colored swimsuit when you’re counting down the days till summer? So whether that name on your list is a two-piece devotee or a full-coverage fan, you’re sure to find something special to gift them with among the diverse and vividly colored creations of Andrea Iyamah and Diarrablu. A floor-sweeping cover-up also makes for a gorgeous gift to unbox, their lightweight forms and relaxed silhouettes proving perfect for a beachside vacation, while a slick pair of sunnies by Bohten and Shekudo’s Aso Oke slides will make a transition from lazy day by the pool to elegant dinner date seamless.

THE ADVENTURE SEEKER

Always ready to discover new places, explore the great outdoors, or book an overseas trip on a whim, ‘utilitarian’ is the word to keep in mind when shopping for that adventure-hungry pal. Why? Well, because being constantly on the go requires a more streamlined lifestyle so gifts that prioritize comfort and functionality are essential. Convenient, practical, and a signifier of serious style, the Torero backpack and its mini iteration by Egypt’s Reform Studio serve as the ideal holdall for an activity-packed day in the city, while the ample space and durability of ZAAF’s Indica Afar Weekender offers everything one could ask of a travel tote. Versatile clothing options are also a great present for The Adventure Seeker but stick to basics (with a twist, of course) that can be easily mixed and matched. Orange Culture, IAMISIGO, and Studio 189’s takes on the T-Shirt are distinctive enough to denote one's fashion chops, yet still adaptable enough to be worn when it's warm, and layered beneath other garments in cooler weather.

THE SUSTAINABILITY CHAMP

As climate change intensifies (and is aggravated by our consumption habits), it’s more important than ever to consider the environment. We’ve also no doubt you know a few people making a serious effort to live more sustainably who would be thrilled by a gift that’s left a minimal environmental footprint in the wake of its creation. So whether they live sustainably or you’re looking to shop more responsibly this festive season, these conscious but covetable gifts make it pretty easy. From the ethically sourced Blesbok leather creations of Okapi (the brand’s offering of classic billfold and phone wallets make for stylish stocking stuffers) to the trinkets of Sidai Designs that benefit and are crafted by a collective of Maasai women in Tanzania, IA offers an abundance of pieces by brands that are taking exceptional steps toward positive change, and these, in particular, will make you feel seriously good about giving—and maybe adding to your own wish list, too.

THE HOMEBODY

Just because they want to bundle up on the couch and hibernate all winter long doesn’t mean that they aren’t also hoping to get a fabulous gift this season. And when it comes to stylish lounging, we can think of nothing better to accompany it than a tracksuit, and Viviers’ luxe ombre styles are perfect for a day spent working from your couch. Plus, with just a few considered accessory choices, they’re also easily turned into a head-turning after-hours ensemble. Alternatively, deliver a little spa-worthy, sartorial luxury to your loved ones' home with a chic silky pajama set that’s as glammed-up as it is comfy: Taibo Bacar’s Mandevo Street Pajama and Shirt Dresses are the ideal gift to don while stylishly revelling in a pre-slumber pampering session. Orange Culture’s Duro Shirt is another wear-at-home wonder: cut from a sorbet-yellow, locally sourced cotton and cut to a loose menswear-inspired fit, its emphasis on comfort and versatility make it a loungewear winner.

THE LUXURY CONNOISSEUR

As someone who is devoted to all things decadent, chic, and of impeccable quality, The Luxury Connoisseur has high standards. For them, it’s all superb tailoring, clean lines, and keep-forever classics, their style choices revealing a commitment to elevated basics, and discernment for sophistication and superior materials. And while having luxe tastes can make someone just a tad difficult to shop for, our selection of decadent gift ideas has you covered. The unexpected elements of the Kente Coat by Ghanaian womenswear brand Christie Brown endear it to those who boldly embrace experimental innovation in their manner of dress, its classical tailoring complemented by meandering patterns and Kente cloth detailing. A striking jewelry piece meanwhile is something they’ll keep for years and Ami Doshi Shah’s regal Collar Necklace design is a standout style that’s perfect for accessorizing everything from festive party dresses to their Boxing Day loungewear.

THE INTERIORS ENTHUSIAST

You know that friend with the perfect apartment who makes it seem like all of her decor just fell into place? Her home isn’t necessarily meticulously organized or filled with impossibly chic high-end goods, but it exudes a palpable spirit of imagination and innovation and is peppered with eye-catching trinkets and striking furniture choices. Hand-loomed from a mix of wool and vintage cotton yarns, the wannabe interior decorator on your list will fall in love with Viviers’ Heirloom Blanket: equal parts decorative and functional, it can serve as a sofa drape or a bed throw, and easily turns every space into an inviting design statement. Another idea? Sidai Designs’ glass bead-woven wall hanging. Crafted using the traditional Maasai beading methods that have been passed down from generation to generation, it’s finished with playful tassels that will bring a dose of bohemian style to any setting.